What Causes Dark Circles and Puffy Eyes, and How to Fix It

Dark circles and puffy eyes can be an unsightly annoyance, and their causes are varied. Luckily, things can be done at home to help prevent or minimize their appearance and rejuvenate that area of your facial skin.

It is important to know that the skin under our eyes is the thinnest anywhere on the body. Therefore, it is the most sensitive to changes — changes both internally and externally. The daily application of makeup and the accumulation of fluids can cause extra stress to this area. In addition to wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness are the most common problems around the eyes.

Why do these things cause puffiness? A lot of it has to do with osmosis. In order to balance out sodium levels, the body will move water to an area of the body that is highly concentrated with salt.

If you do consume too much salt at dinner, you can counteract the high levels of sodium by eating a banana or raisins. If crying is the cause, apply cooled tea bags to your eyes or a cold compress beneath your eyes to minimize any bloating.

Puffy eyes can be the result of the way you sleep at night. Sleeping on your side or stomach can cause fluid to collect around your eyes. The only solution for this is to sleep on your back, if you can manage to make the change.

Other causes can include going to sleep without washing off your makeup or rubbing your eyes frequently.

As for dark circles, lack of sleep is often the cause. Genetics also can play large role in their daily appearance. People of Asian or African decent also commonly have under-eye circles.

Obviously age plays a large part in their appearance as well. As we age, our skin becomes thinner; thus, the tiny blood vessels in this area become more visible. Age also contributes to the loss of volume in this area, which can create a hollowed-out look as the orbital bone is exposed to a greater degree.

Brown circles often are a result of genetics, hyperpigmentation or sun overexposure. Soy- or citrus-based creams will help brighten skin and reduce circles’ appearance. Reducing the amount of times you rub your eyes can also help. Also, you should always be using sunscreen to protect against overexposure.

Blue under-eye circles are a result of pooling blood and are most visible in the mornings. Lack of sleep can cause your skin to appear paler and thus accentuate your under-eye area. Aging can cause these circles, as well. Makeup and creams can help lessen their appearance. Night cream is also a good remedy. Some creams increase the thickness of skin while others hydrate to raise skin.

Your Laser Skin Care carries a unique line of skin care products containing glycolic compound. These products help to brighten, smooth and even out skin tone. To schedule a skin rejuvenation consultation please call us at (323) 525-1516 or visit us online at www.yourlaserskincare.com.

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Meet Dr. Fedonenko

Dr. Fedonenko is a member of the American College of Physicians and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine.

She completed her Residency at the University of Virginia School of Medicine in 1998 and since then has specialized in Cosmetic Dermatology.

She obtained additional training in aesthetic medicine procedures soon thereafter, and the results of her extensive training and experience show in each and every patient’s face. She’s a doctor that can truly been trusted with your skin care and anti-aging needs.